Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 'Greek' organization?

Fraternities and sororities are groups of individuals of similar interest bonded together by common goals and aspirations. These bonds are created through ritual in which members participate. Rituals are based on common principles such as honor, friendship, truth, and knowledge. Each group works to instill and support these ideals in their members through their everyday activities. Membership in a Greek letter organization is a lifetime obligation. The choice to join the sorority community means working with a group of women who can exchange and stand for common goals and ideas while being held to a higher standard than other college students. The Greek experience during the college years is a gateway to many rewards and connections later in life. Each chapter develops a special bond called sisterhood. Both are nurtured thorough common work, laughter, service projects, intramurals and the shared success and frustrations of all. Throughout the student's life, membership will be an unwritten bond of friendship no matter what course his/her life takes.

What are the different fraternities and sororities chapters at RIT?

All of the fraternities and sororities at RIT are chapters of inter/national organizations. Each chapter falls under one of three governing councils: Inter-Fraternity Council (IFC), Multicultural Greek Council (MGC), and College Panhellenic Council (CPC). All RIT recognized fraternities and sororities are a part of one of these councils and are held accountable to their policies, rules, and regulations.

How do I join a fraternity or sorority?

There is a different process for joining organizations, depending on the council under which the organization falls. Panhellenic Recruitment starts during the beginning of the Fall or Spring Semester. Typically at the beginning of the semester organizations have events in which perspective members can meet sisters from all 5 chapters. The Inter-Fraternity Council also has similar recruitment as CPC.

Many of our MGC organizations conduct intake in order to bring in new members to the organizations but there are also several who host more open recruitment practices. The best way to know is to reach out to a member of the organization and ask what their process looks like. The organizations host events throughout the year to be able to get to know students. If a student has interest in possibly joining an organization it is best to first do some research. Follow the link on this page to the chapters page where you can find information about all of the MGC organizations on a national level. After you find an organization that fits well with your values, reach out directly to a member of an organization and set up a time to meet one on one to talk about the possibility of joining.

When can I join? Can I join my freshman year?

You can join whenever you feel ready to be part of a chapter. It is very common for freshman to join IFC and CPC, it is less likely for MGC chapters.

How much does it cost to belong to a fraternity or sorority?

Each chapter's dues are diverse and new member dues are often higher than annual dues because new members pay for their pins, national dues, and insurances. Per year from:

IFC: $600 - $1000

PC: $600 - $1000

MGC: $300 - $1000

What is my first step?

Your first step should be to do your research. It is good to look at all the chapters on campus in order to find the best fit for you.

What is recruitment?

Recruitment is a series of events designed to get to know the different brothers and sisters. At the end of recruitment week, if chosen, you will receive a bid (invitation) to join.

Where will I live if I join a fraternity or sorority?

RIT does support housing for fraternities and sororities both in the residence halls and in Greek Free-standing Housing within the Apartment Area. Your son or daughter should inquire about the housing requirements of each chapter during the recruitment process prior to accepting a bid of membership so there are no surprises once he/she becomes a member of a fraternity or sorority.

Can I work and still participate in a fraternity or sorority?

Actually, many students involved in the RIT Greek community are also employed outside of the classroom. In today's world, the reality is that only the lucky few can afford to attend college without outside employment. Fraternities and sororities recognize that it is important for members to be able to meet their financial obligations and that many students will work to help finance their education. Working students can still take advantage of the opportunities available through the Greek community.

What is it like to be a New Member?

New members experience a period of orientation and education once they express interest in joining a fraternity or sorority. During this time, your daughter or son will participate in weekly meetings to learn about RIT and their chapter. Other events include leadership retreats, community service projects, and activities designed to build friendships amongst the new and older members of chapter.

Hazing is a big concern to parents. RIT and New York State Law prohibit hazing of any kind. Each new member is asked to sign an anti-hazing statement indicating that they will not allow themselves to be hazed and will report any such wrongdoing. Hazing will not be tolerated!

Hazing/Failure to Report Hazing. Behavior, regardless of intent, which endangers the emotional, or physical health and safety of a Student for the purpose of membership, affiliation with, or maintaining membership in, a group or Student Organization. Hazing includes any level of participation, such as being in the presence, having awareness of hazing, or failing to report hazing. Examples of hazing include, but are not limited to, beating or branding, sleep deprivation or causing excessive fatigue, threats of harm, forcing or coercing consumption of food, water, alcohol or other drugs, or other substances, verbal abuse, embarrassing, humiliating, or degrading acts, or activities that induce, cause or require the Student to perform a duty or task which is not consistent with fraternal law, ritual or policy or involves a violation of local, state or federal laws, or the RIT Code of Conduct.

Alcohol abuse is unhealthy and inconsistent with fraternity and sorority ideals. All fraternities and sororities are expected to uphold state, county, city laws, and university policies regarding the consumption of alcohol. In addition, chapters are not allowed to purchase alcohol for their members due to national risk-management policies. The Interfraternity, Panhellenic, and National Pan-Hellenic councils will also take proper action against any chapter if alcohol is being abused.

Will being in a fraternity or sorority have an adverse effect on my grades?

Actually, it's more likely that a fraternity or sorority will help your grades. When a student joins a fraternity or sorority, they becomes part of a larger group of students who can provide assistance in most of the courses you will be taking. There are few other places where a student can gain access to the variety of resources that the Greek community can offer. Ultimately, the responsibility for succeeding in the classroom belongs on the individual but with the broad range of resources available within the Greek community, students are more likely to achieve their academic potential.

Who is actually in charge of the fraternities & sororities?

Fraternity and sorority members elected to officer positions manage the day-to-day operations of the organization. These officers are assisted by members serving on committees and by alumni who act as advisors. In addition, all Greek organizations at RIT are part of a national organization which offers support, advice, and direction through a paid professional staff and regional volunteers. Professional staff from the Institute are employed to assist and monitor the activities of Greek organizations including the IFC & College Panhellenic Adviser (Eric M. Pope, empccl@rit.edu), or MGC Adviser (Stephanie Paredes, sxpnsc@rit.edu).

What is the role of parents?

Be supportive and learn as much as you can by asking questions of your son or daughter as they meets people through the recruitment process. Also, be an active parent during your child's years in a fraternity or sorority. Encourage and support your child, and if you ever have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the professional staff that work with fraternities and sororities at RIT mentioned above.